Question:
what does pannilectomy/abdominalplasty surgury mean.

in a recent letter from my health insurance i was approve for a pannilectomy/abdominalplasty , but my surgeon says that for the abdominal plasty its an additional fee is that true.    — HELENNOVOA123 (posted on July 16, 2008)

July 16, 2008
These surgeries remove extra skin. You will probably have to pay a deductible since it is a surgery.
   — bariatricdivalatina

July 16, 2008
Good for you. I am so happy for you. I wish I could get it paid for. Good luck
   — Joanc

July 16, 2008
Abdominoplasty is a "tummy tuck", removes excess fat and skin, and in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is flatter and firmer. Panniculectomy is a procedure to remove excess, hanging skin called the "apron" on the lower abdomen especially after massive weight loss. Panniculectomy can be done with or without abdominoplasty. Since they are different procedures, it would make sense that there would be two separate charges for them. I don't really know as I'm not one of those fortunate people whose insurance pays for things like this. I am a self pay, so even if you have to pay some, be thankfull. Good luck, Dawn Vickers, RN, BLC, CLC
   — DawnVic

July 16, 2008
Congrats, I just went to a surgeon and he said the Panni removes just excess skin and you end up with no belly button, abdomy, tucks, tightens and remakes the navel. Thats sad isnt it, that also explains the difference in price and which one the ins. companies will allow. Good luck
   — dessary316

July 17, 2008
I work for an insurance company and I've had this procedure done covered by insurance. It should NOT cost extra - I would consider either discussing this with your MD or finding another one. If the coverage is for a panniculectomy - they have to "sew the skin back" once they cut it off, so it is all inclusive.
   — urrn4u

July 19, 2008
They are the same. I had it done. If your surgeon says there is an extra charge, contact your insurance company and have them call your DR. and talk to them for you. It should straighten things out quickly. Don't be fooled into paying extra.
   — Pamela C.

August 8, 2008
Helen, I think you need to be sure that your approval letter states that you will be covered for both then take that letter in to your doctor to discuss what he is telling you. I'm sure there are two separate fees for each procedure, but they should be able to do them at the same time. I have attached a link here that will explain the difference between the two (http://www.yourplasticsurgeryguide.com/tummy-tuck/panniculectomy.htm). Good luck with whatever you decide to do...
   — BrendaMS